Month: December 2024

Whether you’re here in Canada for study, work or any other purpose, most of you will undoubtedly look for employment sooner or later. While you may already have a resume which might have worked wonders for your last job placement, it may not work that well when you’re searching for employment within this country.

Canada is a land of opportunity for people seeking employment, but knowing the intricacies of the Canadian job market and the standard formatting of resumes is key to success. This guide provides ways that are considered the best to find employment and develop a professional Canadian style resume in 2025.

Best Strategies To Find Employment in Canada

1. Research the Job Market

Knowing the demand of your profession across the various regions of Canada will be important. Use resources such as the Canadian Job Bank and job boards specific to the location. Research labour market trends through industry reports or tools like the Explore the Market feature.

2. Target Your Resume and Cover Letter

Employers would much rather see applications tailored specifically to their needs. Match your skills and experiences to the description of the job that you’re applying for. Use action verbs and quantify achievements to make your resume stand out. If you need help, we’ve included a sample of a Canadian Resume at the end of this blog that you can use while crafting your resume.

3. Build a Professional Network

Networking is a powerful tool in Canada. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Attend industry events, job fairs, and professional meetups happening in or near your Canadian city to expand your connections.

4. Gain Canadian Work Experience

Local experience helps employers trust your ability to adapt to Canadian workplace culture. Try to find internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs to establish a local employment history. Many employers have programs that give newcomers work experience.

5. Improve Your Language

A good level of English or French is essential for most jobs in Canada. Sign up for free government-funded language programs available at Canada.ca. You can also get lots of practice in speaking and writing to build your workplace communications.

6. Use Job Search Resources

Access the diverse job search resources across Canada. Online portals such as Indeed and Workopolis are popular among job seekers. Seek help from newcomer programs that have been specifically set up to assist immigrants in finding jobs. Here are some of the most popular resources for finding employment:

• https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob
• https://ca.indeed.com/q-canada-job-bank-jobs.html
• https://jobbankcanada.com/

7. Understand Licensing Requirements

If your profession is a regulated one, then ensure that you meet all the certification or licensing requirements. If you’re a medical professional, refer to organizations like the Medical Council of Canada for guidance in specific fields.

8. Prepare for Interviews

Cultural awareness can bring in lots of differences during interviews. Practice common interview questions and learn about workplace etiquette. You can also refer to our guide on the Dos and Don’ts of Canadian Social Etiquette and Norms.

How to Prepare a Canadian Style Resume

A Canadian resume is all about clarity, relevance, and professionalism. Here’s how to write a perfect Canadian style resume in 2025:

1. Formatting and Length

Write a 1-2 page document, depending on your experience. Use a clean format and clearly head your sections and bullet points.

2. Contact Info

Use your full name, phone number, email, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile. Do not attach photos or personal information like age, sex, or marital status.

3. Professional Summary

Start with a short paragraph that outlines your career objectives and relevant experience.

4. Work Experience

Use a reverse-chronological format quantifying accomplishments: “Increased sales by 20%”.

5. Education

List your educational background starting with the latest qualification. Make sure to include your Degree, Certification, and Relevant Coursework.

6. Skills

Mention the technical and soft skills relevant to the applied post. Make sure to mention your language proficiency, particularly in English and French.

7. Additional Sections

Add any certification, volunteer activities, or professional organization membership.

Example of a Canadian-Style Resume

[Your Name]
[Your Address]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[LinkedIn Profile]

Professional Summary
Results-driven software engineer with 7+ years of experience in developing scalable applications. Skilled in full-stack development and cloud integration, with a proven record of improving system performance by 30%.

Work Experience
Senior Software Developer
Tech Solutions Inc., Toronto, ON
June 2019 – Present

• Led a team of 8 to design and implement cloud-based applications, improving efficiency by 25%.
• Developed APIs that reduced server downtime by 15%.

Software Engineer
CodeWorks Ltd., Calgary, AB
August 2015 – May 2019

• Optimized database structures, reducing query time by 40%.
• Designed front-end interfaces that improved user engagement metrics by 20%.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB
May 2015

Skills

• Full-Stack Development
• Cloud Integration
• Agile Methodology
• Bilingual in English and French

Certifications
AWS Certified Developer

By following these strategies and crafting a polished, Canadian-style resume, you’ll increase your chances of finding employment in Canada.

More Resources:

Cost of Living in Canada

Tips to Survive Canadian Winter

Whether you’re already in Canada or making plans to immigrate, one of the major goals for many immigrants is becoming a Canadian Citizen. If your ultimate goal is also to obtain a Canadian Citizenship, you’re on the right website. Here at MDSVISA Immigration Services, we not just help you with visa and immigration services, we also help you achieve your immigration goals and that includes obtaining a Canadian Citizenship.

From eligibility requirements to benefits and even a step-by-step process of applying for Canadian Citizenship, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you on your road to becoming a Canadian Citizen. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Eligibility Requirements for Canadian Citizenship

Before applying for Canadian citizenship, there are a few criteria you need to satisfy. Let’s go through all of them:

1. Permanent Resident Status

You should be a permanent resident. Your PR status should be valid and not in the process of review against possible fraud in immigration or other legal cases.

2. Physical Presence in Canada

You must have been physically present in Canada at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5 years immediately before the date of your application.

Days accumulated as a temporary resident, for example, student, worker, or protected person, or as a protected person can count toward the above requirement but only partially. To confirm your eligibility, use the Physical Presence Calculator on the government’s website.

3. Income Tax Filing

You must have filed income taxes in Canada for 3 of the last 5 years under the Income Tax Act.

4. Language Skills

Language ability is a must-have for all individuals between the age groups of 18 to 54 years in order to be eligible for Canadian Citizenship. You will be required to converse and understand either of Canada’s two official languages, English or French at the professional level.

Accepted proof includes a test result from a recognized language test such as IELTS and CELPIP.

5. Citizenship Test

If you are between the ages of 18 and 54, you will need to take a citizenship test. You will be tested on your knowledge about Canada’s history, geography, economy, government structure, laws and symbols, as well as the rights and responsibilities of citizens. It is multiple-choice in nature, with 20 questions; you will have to correctly answer at least 15 questions.

6. Oath of Citizenship

You will also have to take an Oath of Citizenship. Taking the Oath of Citizenship in a ceremony seals your citizenship. It seals your commitment to uphold Canadian values, laws, and traditions. 

Step-by-Step Application Process for Canadian Citizenship

Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible

The first step is to understand whether you’re eligible or not through the above eligibility requirements or through the government’s official website here.

Step 2: Download the Citizenship Application Form

Log in to Canada.ca and print out the application form; it contains different forms based on your status as an adult, a minor, or submitting due to specific circumstances, such as adoption.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the application form as required. Attach all the documents in the document checklist, including proof of your PR status, your tax records, language test results, and identification. Incomplete or wrongly completed applications are delayed or rejected.

Step 4: Pay for the Application Fees

As of 20th November 2024, the Canadian Citizenship Application fee is $630 for applicants who are 18 years or older and $100 for applicants under 18 years of age. The fee has two aspects: a processing fee of $530 and the Right of Citizenship fee of $100. Out of these fees, the processing fee is non-refundable while the Right to Citizenship fee is refundable if your application is rejected.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Mail or courier the complete, finished application form to the address included in the instructions. Use a service that provides a tracking number so you can accurately know when it is received.

Step 6: Check on the Status of Your Application

You can check your application status online with a specific number provided to you by IRCC after making the submission.

Step 7: Get Ready to Take the Citizenship Test and Interview

If you have to take one, prepare and get ready to take the citizenship test. You can study the official guide entitled Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship which can help you with most of the questions of the test. Tests are usually written but sometimes oral in specific cases of applicants, such as those with disabilities. Sometimes, some applicants may be asked to appear before an interview for certain questions about the application.

Step 8: Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

If your application is successful, you will be sent an invitation to take part in a citizenship ceremony. Here, you will take the Oath of Citizenship at this ceremony, receive your certificate of citizenship, and you will finally be a Canadian citizen.

Benefits of Canadian Citizenship

There are a number of advantages associated with gaining Canadian citizenship:

• Voting Rights: You will have the right to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections.
• Travel: You will get a Canadian passport that offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries.
• Employment: Many jobs require one to be a citizen, including government ones.
• Dual Citizenship: Canada has dual citizenship, and hence you will not lose your previous country of citizenship.

Useful Links for Your Citizenship Journey

• Physical Presence Calculator: Calculate your residency days.
• Discover Canada Guide: Official study guide for the citizenship test.
• IRCC Citizenship Services: To track applications and to make general inquiries.

Conclusion

Becoming a Canadian citizen opens new avenues and attaches you more strongly to Canada. Hopefully, this guide will help you successfully get your Canadian citizenship. However, if you still have queries or require relevant professional assistance with your application, you can reach out to us.

More Helpful Resources:

Mistakes to Avoid During the Visa Application Process in Canada

How to Calculate Express Entry Points

How to Get PR in Canada After Study

TR to PR Pathway

All packed and ready for a new life in Canada? From super warm winter jackets to waterproof boots, these are some common things you will need to beat our harsh winters. But something that most people forget about is preparing themselves, or more precisely, preparing their social skills for this country. 

Canada is a diverse country with people from all over the world. It is also known for its politeness, inclusivity of all races and genders, and respect for others. This is also what makes Canada different from other countries. And one of the most common troubles that foreigners run into is doing something that was absolutely innocent and fine in their country but is not in Canada. Not understanding the social norms and etiquette of Canadians can make you stick out like a sore thumb, even hindering your attempt at making new friends. 

So, it’s essential to understand what you can and can’t do in Canada, and what the social norms are, if you wish to go far in building meaningful connections and leaving a positive impression. Fortunately, we’re here to back you up! We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of 10 things you should do and 10 things you shouldn’t do in Canada. So, without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Dos of Canadian Social Etiquette

1. Be Polite and Friendly

Canadians have become a benchmark for politeness and friendliness around the world. A warm smile and a simple “hello” can get one through with flying colours.

2. Hold the Door Open

It is considered good manners, and working etiquette, to hold the door open for the person coming behind you, especially for the elderly, disabled, or for someone who may have their hands full.

3. Say “Sorry” Liberally

In Canada, “Sorry” is more than just an apology; it is a cultural phenomenon that displays empathy and consideration. Even when it isn’t your fault, saying “sorry” is a kind way to lighten social interactions.

4. Be Punctual

In Canada, time is of the essence. For business or social meetings, showing up on time or even a bit before is a respect given to other people’s schedules.

5. Respect for Personal Space

Canadians respect personal space. When talking to someone, stand far enough away from each other so that both of you are comfortable.

6. Make Small Talk

Small talk fills the gap when waiting for a more in-depth conversation. Discussion of the weather, sporting events, or news events makes for good starters when getting acquainted with someone.

7. Be Considerate in Public Transportation

Always thank the bus driver, go to the back of the bus allowing others to get on and always offer your seat to the elderly, people with disability, and pregnant individuals.

8. Shake Hands

9. Respect Privacy

Do not ask too personal or sensitive questions unless he or she opens up the subject themselves.

10. Be Honest and Humble

Canadians like it if a person is honest and humble. Although it’s good to mention what your achievement is, try to avoid being boastful or too self-centred

Taboos in Canadian Social Etiquette

Here is a list of 10 don’ts of Canadian Etiquette:

1. Do Not Be Overly Affectionate

Canadians are warm but not too affectionate. They are not very fond of hugging or kissing people they have just met.

2. Don’t Interrupt

Politeness also comes in conversations. Let people have a turn to talk and do not cut them off mid-sentence.

3. Don’t Be Late

Showing up late is undeniably considered disrespectful. Devise ways to be timely for appointments or social gatherings.

4. Don’t Invade Personal Spaces

In a conversation, standing too close to the other makes one uneasy. Give some personal space.

5. Don’t Ignore Small Talk

Skipping small talk may give someone an impression of rudeness or lack of interest. Small talk is an important part of Canadian interpersonal relations.

6. Public Transit – Do Not Be Rude

Loud conversations, eating, or placing your feet on the seats are not smiled upon when using public transit. Be respectful to your fellow commuters.

7. Do Not Disregard Cultural Sensitivities

Multiculturalism in Canada means that respect for cultures and traditions is crucial. Do not make insensitive comments, assumptions or remarks.

8. Do Not Overstate Your Achievements

Canadians tend to be modest. The act of bragging about oneself might come across as being conceited.

9. Don’t Ignore Social Norms

Whether it be holding doors open, saying “thank you” or observing event protocols, following general social norms shows respect and friendliness.

10. Don’t Pry Into Personal Matters

One should respect people’s personal space by not asking intrusive or too-personal questions. Privacy is a big deal in Canadian culture.

A Canadian Social Norm in Action: Respecting Event Rules

Conclusion

Understanding and observing Canadian social etiquette will help you build positive relationships and deal confidently with any situation. By embracing politeness, respect for cultural diversity, and adherence to established norms of conduct, you will be part of Canada’s welcoming and inclusive culture. 

More Resources:

Holidays and Celebrations in Canada

Cost of Living in Different Provinces in Canada